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AMERICAN ROCKETS IN THE WAR OF 1812 BOMFORD, GEORGE. Autograph Letter Signed, "G. Bomford," to Captain J. Rees, concerning the construction of
AMERICAN ROCKETS IN THE WAR OF 1812BOMFORD, GEORGE. Autograph Letter Signed, "G. Bomford," to Captain J. Rees, concerning the construction of rockets. With a postscript signed with initials. 1 page, folded 4to sheet with integral address leaf; unevenly toned, some restoration along fold. Washington, 9 January 1814
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Notes: "The Bearer John DeFauvel has applied to me for a contract for the construction of rockets - he has already received my directions on the subject, & will make specimens by which you will be ennabled (by measuring the time of flight & range at a given angle noting the diameter of the Rocket) on experiment to report to me the results. Should he succeed and his terms acceptable, it will relieve you from this duty in part as I am apprehensive that every exertion more rockets will be required than can be furnished in time without the aid of assistance by contract."
Bomford (1782-1848) soldier and inventor, considered the greatest U. S. ordinance expert of the early 19th century, invented the howitzer. This letter suggests that Bomford was working with the U. S. military to manufacture rockets to fight back against the British, who were using Congreve rockets, in the War of 1812.
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